Life

9 Myths About Sex You Might Not Realize You Believe

by Autumn Jones

Ever wish you had a rockstar sex goddess friend (think Samantha from Sex and the City) who could give you great tips about knockin' boots over drinks at happy hour? Talking about sex can be fun and, in some instances, educational. But it's one of those topics that can be a mix of truths and misconceptions. It's important to sort out what information is accurate and which pieces of knowledge are completely bogus. In fact, the wires can get so crossed on this subject, that it's possible there are some myths about sex you might not realize you believe.

It can happen to anyone. The same false information has been circulating around for so long, it's easy to start believe it and take it as truth. When it comes to sex, you want to know for certain what is factual, since your health could be effected. Debunking sex myths can be the thing that prevents you from having an unwanted pregnancy or contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). And aside from your wellbeing, knowing more truths about sex can make it way more fun and satisfying for you.

You don't have to be a Samantha to know a sex myth when you see one. Take a look at these nine myths about sex, and start setting all the rumors straight.

Myth #1: Men & Women Sexually Peak At Different Times

That bit about men and women having the best sex of their lives at different ages? Total BS. This theory was based on the timing of hormonal changes, but as Cosmopolitan pointed out, a good sex life comes from feeling sexually satisfied, not from having raging hormones.

Myth #2: All Women Can Orgasm From Vaginal Sex

While it is true that some woman can have orgasms from no other stimulation than vaginal sex, the percentage is small. According to Psychology Today, 70 percent of women need clitoral stimulation to reach orgasm.

Myth #3: Condoms Make Sex Dull For Men

This myth is a fave of high school boys, and although you know better, it's one of those that is ingrained in your mind early on, making you wonder if there could be some truth behind it. To clear things up, Men's Fitness listed five ways condoms make sex better, including points like condoms make the guy last longer

Myth #4: Oral Sex Is Safer Than Intercourse

It might sound like good bait to get someone to give you oral sex, but everyone should know that this is not without risk. According to the Centers For Disease Control, many different STDs can be transmitted through oral sex, because bodily fluids are being exchanged. Make sure to ask your partner if they have any sexually transmitted diseases before heading down south, and use protection if they have tested positive.

Myth #5: You Can't Get Pregnant While On Your Period

While the odds are in this myth's favor, it's not a complete slam dunk. Although the chances of getting pregnant while on your period are small, the possibility does exist. As the American Pregnancy Association explained, if the timing of ovulation, sex, and your cycle line up, it is possible to get pregnant while on your period. If this is a concern for you, just remember to use protection.

Myth #6: Bigger Is Better

When it comes to sexual satisfaction, size doesn't matter (at least anatomically speaking). As Women's Health pointed out, the pleasure point for women is very close to the opening of the vagina, meaning all sizes of penises should be able to stimulate that area easy.

Myth #7: Pulling Out Is Effective Birth Control

Just because a guy pulls out before he ejaculates, doesn't mean some swimmers didn't take off for an egg. According to Mayo Clinic, "sperm may enter the vagina if withdrawal isn't properly timed or if pre-ejaculation fluid contains sperm."

Myth #8: Sex After Marriage Is A Snore

Think your sex life will become a snoozefest (or even worse — end all together) after you tie the knot? Think again. Many married couples have great sex and are very satisfied getting it on with their partner, according to Psychology Today.

Myth #9: Only Men Have Nightgasms

Guys aren't the only ones woken up by a tingling in the undies. Psychology Today notes that the female body is also capable of spontaneous orgasms, which typically happen while they are in dreamland. (Although you don't even need a dirty dream to score a night time O.)